Material Witness

Through his research, his writing, and his design, architect Blaine Brownell is changing the profession's awareness of building products and materials.

6 MIN READ

PRODUCT: ERCO Virtual Luminaires
WHAT IT IS: Models for digital lighting simulation
ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECT: Simulation studies may prevent wasted energy from poor lighting solutions


PRODUCT: Sphelar
WHAT IT IS: Spherical micro solar cells
ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS: Renewable energy source; less embodied energy; fewer materials than conventional photovoltaics


PRODUCT: Panelite
WHAT IT IS: Insulated glass unit with tubular polycarbonate core
ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS: Recyclable components; natural daylighting; efficient use of materials


PRODUCT: Geometrix
WHAT IT IS: Lightweight recycled metal ceramic tiles
ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECT: 90 percent recycled content


PRODUCT: UltraTouch
WHAT IT IS: Natural cotton-fiber
ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS: Recycled content; no volatile organic compounds or harmful chemicals


PRODUCT: Solarwall
WHAT IT IS: Solar air panels
ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS: Lowers energy load; reduces fossil-fuel dependency and carbon emissions

1 MATERIAL: Aegis Hyposurface
WHAT IT IS: Environmentally responsive architectural surface
APPLICATIONS: Interactive art, feature wall

2 MATERIAL: Wood.
WHAT IT IS: Electrified preformed wood
APPLICATION: Furniture

3 MATERIAL: Protrude, Flow
WHAT IT IS: Magnetic fluid art
APPLICATIONS: Exhibits, interactive art

4 MATERIAL: Interactable
WHAT IT IS: Interactive table
APPLICATIONS: Conference rooms, showrooms, exhibitions

About the Author

Braulio Agnese

Braulio Agnese is a freelance editor and communications consultant. When he's not focusing on design and architecture, you'll find him engaging in arts-related endeavors. Follow him on Twitter at @bagnese.

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